P0740 on Nissan
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction
P0740 on Nissan vehicles indicates torque converter clutch circuit malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 10 Nissan models — most commonly on Altima, Juke, Kicks. This code indicates a malfunction in the torque converter clutch (TCC) circuit of an automatic transmission. The torque converter clutch mechanically locks the engine to the transmission at cruising speed to improve fuel economy and reduce slippage, and it is engaged by a solenoid controlled by the transmission computer. The code sets when the computer detects an electrical problem with the clutch circuit or sees that the clutch is not engaging or holding as expected. Common signs include slipping, shuddering, poor fuel economy, or stalling when coming to a stop. Typical repair costs on Nissan range from $150 to $6,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0740
- •Faulty torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid
- •Low or contaminated transmission fluid
- •Wiring or connector fault in the TCC circuit
- •Worn or failing torque converter
- •Valve body wear or sticking valves
- •Internal transmission electrical short
- •Faulty transmission control module
P0740 on Nissan by Model
Nissan Altima(1 issue)
- CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder2013-2023
The CVT transmission is known for reliability issues including shuddering, jerking, and complete failure. Nissan extended the CVT warranty on some model years to 10 years/120,000 miles due to widespread problems. High-mileage CVTs are particularly at risk.
Nissan Juke(1 issue)
- CVT Transmission Failure (Jatco CVT7)2011-2017
The Juke CVT (Jatco CVT7/JF015E) paired with the turbocharged engine is stressed beyond its design capacity. The turbo's torque output accelerates CVT wear, leading to shuddering, slipping, and failure often before 100,000 miles. AWD models add additional strain on the CVT.
Nissan Kicks(2 issues)
- CVT Overheating During Highway Driving2018-2024
The Nissan Kicks CVT transmission (Jatco CVT7 W/R) overheats during sustained highway driving, particularly in hot weather or hilly terrain. The transmission enters limp mode to protect itself, limiting speed to 40-50 mph. The small displacement 1.6L engine forces the CVT to work harder at highway speeds, contributing to heat buildup.
- Excessive Engine Noise and Vibration (HR16DE)2018-2024
The Kicks HR16DE 1.6L engine produces excessive noise and vibration that transmits into the cabin, particularly at highway RPMs where the CVT holds the engine at 3,000-4,000 RPM. The lack of sound insulation and the CVT's tendency to keep RPMs high under load amplifies the issue.
Nissan Maxima(1 issue)
- CVT Transmission Shudder and Failure (Jatco CVT8)2016-2023
The 2016-2023 Maxima (8th generation) uses the Jatco CVT8 paired with the VQ35DE engine. Despite being a flagship sedan, the CVT suffers from shuddering, hesitation, and premature failure. The high torque output of the 3.5L V6 exacerbates CVT wear. Nissan TSB NTB16-076 addresses CVT judder for these models.
Nissan Murano(1 issue)
- CVT Transmission Failure and Shudder2009-2020
The 2009-2020 Murano equipped with the CVT (Jatco JF010E and later JF016E) is prone to premature failure. Symptoms include shuddering, slipping, and complete loss of drive. The 2009-2014 models with JF010E are particularly problematic. Nissan extended CVT warranties on some model years but many owners face failures outside coverage.
Nissan Pathfinder(1 issue)
- CVT Transmission Failure (Jatco CVT8/JF016E)2013-2020
The 2013-2020 Pathfinder uses the Jatco CVT8 (JF016E) which suffers from premature failure under the heavier loads of the SUV. The transmission overheats during towing, climbing, or sustained highway driving. Nissan issued TSB NTB15-024 for CVT judder and extended the warranty under CSI P8242. A class-action settlement provided additional coverage for some owners.
Nissan Quest(1 issue)
- CVT Transmission Failure Under Load2011-2017
The Quest CVT (Jatco JF010E/RE0F09B) paired with the VQ35DE V6 suffers from premature failure, particularly when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The combination of a heavy minivan with a CVT designed for lighter vehicles leads to overheating and accelerated wear. Failures commonly occur between 60,000-120,000 miles.
Nissan Rogue(1 issue)
- CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder2014-2020
The Nissan Rogue's CVT transmission is prone to premature failure, shuddering, and jerky operation. Nissan extended the CVT warranty on many affected vehicles to 10 years/120,000 miles due to widespread issues. High-mileage CVTs are particularly at risk for complete failure.
Nissan Sentra(1 issue)
- CVT Transmission Failure (Jatco CVT7/JF015E)2013-2021
The 2013-2021 Sentra uses the Jatco CVT7 (JF015E) transmission which is prone to premature failure, shuddering, and overheating. Nissan extended the CVT warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles under Customer Service Initiative P8242. The transmission can fail as early as 60,000 miles. Common failure modes include belt slipping, valve body failure, and bearing wear.
Nissan Versa(1 issue)
- CVT Transmission Failure (Jatco CVT7/JF015E)2012-2021
The 2012-2021 Versa CVT (Jatco JF015E) is one of the most failure-prone transmissions in Nissan's lineup. The combination of a budget vehicle with heavy use leads to premature CVT failure, often before 100,000 miles. Nissan extended the CVT warranty on 2012-2017 models to 10 years/120,000 miles due to a class-action settlement (Batista v. Nissan).
Looking for P0740 on a different make?
View P0740 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0740 mean on Nissan?▼
P0740 stands for "Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction." This code indicates a malfunction in the torque converter clutch (TCC) circuit of an automatic transmission. The torque converter clutch mechanically locks the engine to the transmission at cruising speed to improve fuel economy and reduce slippage, and it is engaged by a solenoid controlled by the transmission computer. The code sets when the computer detects an electrical problem with the clutch circuit or sees that the clutch is not engaging or holding as expected. Common signs include slipping, shuddering, poor fuel economy, or stalling when coming to a stop. On Nissan specifically, this code is documented across 10 models.
What causes P0740 on Nissan vehicles?▼
Common causes on Nissan: Faulty torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid, Low or contaminated transmission fluid, Wiring or connector fault in the TCC circuit, Worn or failing torque converter, Valve body wear or sticking valves. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0740 on a Nissan?▼
Repair costs on Nissan range from $150 to $6,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Nissan models have P0740 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0740 on 10 Nissan models: Altima, Juke, Kicks, Maxima, Murano, Pathfinder, Quest, Rogue, Sentra, Versa.